Technique question (Hi-Hat)?

[henry_mullis]

Hey,
This is not really a recording question but I figured that the Drum Forum could answer it. How do you make the hi-hat sizzle with your foot? Before you answer this realize that I understand how to achieve sizzle and different effects with my stick, but I want to know how to play that open sound using just my foot. I listen to Dennis Chambers do this a lot. The way I have achieved this (somewhat) is to press the pedal down and then let it up very quickly. It is not as full as I think it should be. Any help is appreciated.

Thanks,
Henry

 

[Stealthtech]

Perhaps putting a good tilt on the bottom cymbal would help.

 

[tmix]

Hard to describe

henry,
I do it all the time and yet it is a hard technique to describe but easy to demonstrate.(I'll be right over!)

The best way I can describe how to do it is as follows:
Put your foot in a " heels-up" position on you hi-hat pedal with just a small amount of weight on it.
Then with basically the same motions you would use for keeping time with that foot in the "heels up" position you give a firm bounce just slightly before the beat. (kind of a whip-lash kind of pulse).
You will have to adjust a few factors depending on your technique such as weight transfer/timing and sometimes even a little cymbal tilt.
I find if I take the weight off my foot just berfore my pulse it gives a really loud foot closed sound,loud enough so it sounds as loud as a stick hit.
I hope I explained it good enough to get you started in the right direction, give a shout if you need more help.

tmix

 

[SirPsychoSexy]

I always do it as if I were double-stroking the kick pedal, just on the hi-hat.